Maraschino Cherry Nut Cake

INGREDIENTS

• 1 (10 ounce) jar maraschino cherries
• 2 1/4 cups sifted cake flour
• 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, divided
• 1/2 cup shortening
• 1 1/3 cups white sugar
• 3 egg whites, room temperature
• 2/3 cup milk, room temperature
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
• 3/4 cup butter, room temperature
• 6 cups sifted confectioners' sugar, divided
• 1/3 cup milk
• 6 drops red food coloring
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
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• 12 maraschino cherries, with stems